complement 1 of 2

noun

ˈkäm-plə-mənt How to pronounce complement (audio)
Definition of complementnext
1
as in supplement
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in capacity
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

Synonyms & Similar Words

complement

2 of 2

verb

ˈkäm-plə-ˌment How to pronounce complement (audio)
as in to adorn
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complement
Noun
China and Russia have both built terrestrial complements to their satellite navigation systems, creating layered resilience that the United States still lacks. — Mariam Sorond, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 According to Littley, a common mistake among home cooks is neglecting how the pasta and sauce complement each other. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026
Verb
In a statement to CNBC, Novo Nordisk confirmed the agreement with Vivani and said it is focused on complementing its internal research and development efforts with external innovation. — Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 11 July 2026 When considering paint colors and fabrics, pick a mix of shades and patterns that complement each other, rather than ones that compete for your attention. — Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 11 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for complement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complement
  1. supplement
  2. capacity
  3. adorn
  4. volume
  5. enhance
  6. real estate
  7. complete
  8. decorate
Noun
  • In its own statement, LA28 described the use of the under construction Hollywood Park Studios in Inglewood as a supplement to the International Broadcast Center to support operations but not as the main base.
    — Erik Hayden, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2026
  • The other parts include a vegetarian, fat-free diet, three juices (carrot, carrot and apple, and a green juice) and supplements.
    — Shelby Hartman, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026
Definition of supplement
Noun
  • In June, Oceanside’s City Council voted unanimously to exempt multiple sites from the law and deferred others from high-density zoning until 2032, relying on carve-outs for areas with existing housing capacity, lack of walking paths and more.
    — Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2026
  • The event hit its 25,000 capacity earlier in the day, a first and last for the free festival.
    — Zuri Primos July 12, Kansas City Star, 12 July 2026
Definition of capacity
Verb
  • He was surrounded by beige pleather armchairs gathered around low tables adorned with silk flowers.
    — Romina Ruiz-Goiriena, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • While male figures adorn the bills, recent years have seen the signatures of powerful women like Janet Yellen, Lynn Malerba, Azie Taylor Morton, and Rosa Gumataotao Rios quietly circulate on trillions of dollars.
    — Doug Melville, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of adorn
Noun
  • Omdia’s recent study found that the volume of phones under $400 will decline, while higher price points will offset the decline.
    — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026
  • Looking ahead, the current transition year sets up Ferrari for rapid growth in 2027, when new models boost sales volumes and profit margins, Rosner said.
    — Assiatou Hann, CNBC, 11 July 2026
Definition of volume
Verb
  • That impressive steak, seasoned just right to enhance the natural flavors of the wagyu beef, is just one reason to visit Enzo Steakhouse at Trilith in Fayetteville.
    — Justin Brown, AJC.com, 12 July 2026
  • Wider Michelin tires come standard, as does enhanced regenerative braking and handy access panels to make servicing easier – a feature your mechanic will certainly appreciate.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 11 July 2026
Definition of enhance
Noun
  • Our real estate data comes from public records that have been registered and digitized by local county offices.
    — Bay Area Home Report, Mercury News, 10 July 2026
  • Long before curved, sculptural homes became a fixture of luxury real estate, French architect Claude Misbach was experimenting with the idea on the Mediterranean coast.
    — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 9 July 2026
Definition of real estate
Verb
  • The RoamRest 6-in RV queen mattress is located behind and above the dinette, completing a cozy two-person layout.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 8 July 2026
  • Nothing matters more right now than completing demolition and cleanup as quickly and safely as possible to protect the health and safety of Boyle Heights and East LA.
    — City News Service, Daily News, 8 July 2026
Definition of complete
Verb
  • This disaccharide is found decorating the cells of nonprimate mammals, including cows and pigs, but it’s also released in the saliva of ticks, particularly the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum).
    — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 7 July 2026
  • The Cafe Orleans trees are decorated with seasonal decor during the Mardi Gras season.
    — Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 7 July 2026
Definition of decorate

Browse Nearby Words

compleat
complement
complementary
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Cite this Entry

“Complement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complement. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on complement

Nglish: Translation of complement for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about complement

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